The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice clarified that President Bola Tinubu’s recent exercise of mercy has not yet released any prisoner.
The AGF explained that the process remains in its final administrative stage. Officials conduct a detailed review at this stage to ensure all names and recommendations meet legal and procedural standards before issuing any release instrument.
“It is important to note that the last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for the implementation of the decision concerning each beneficiary,” read a statement signed by Attorney-General Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) on Thursday.
“This stage affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before the instrument is forwarded to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”
Fagbemi added that the government remains committed to transparency and due process. He described the verification process as a routine legal requirement.
“The Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice appreciates the public’s vigilance and constructive feedback, which continue to strengthen institutional integrity. Public engagement is always welcome, as it demonstrates that Nigerians care deeply about justice and good governance,” he said.
“There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy. Officials will duly inform the public as soon as they conclude all legal and procedural checks. The rule of law does not rush; it ensures fairness.”
In the recent clemency list, President Tinubu granted pardons to several notable figures, including the late Major General Mamman Vatsa (retd), a former FCT minister under Babangida, and nationalist Herbert Macaulay.
Others pardoned were Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, Barrister Hussaini Umar, Anastasia Daniel Nwaobia, and Farouk Lawan, a former House of Representatives member. Authorities reportedly pardoned them after they showed remorse and readiness to reintegrate into society.
President Tinubu also granted clemency to Dr. Nwogu Peters, who served 12 of his 17-year fraud sentence, and to Nweke Francis Chibueze, convicted for cocaine offenses.
President Tinubu additionally pardoned the Ogoni Nine including Ken Saro-Wiwa and other activists, and awarded national honors to the Ogoni Four: Chiefs Samuel Orage, Theophilus Orage, Edward Kobani, and Albert Badey.
In total, Tinubu reduced the sentences of 65 prisoners, granted clemency to 82, and commuted seven death sentences to life imprisonment, offering hope and second chances.
